Here we go again! Strong Storms Passing Thru. What about my chimney?

Strong storms are back again. Here we thought it was going to be strong storms over the weekend from the hurricane and it turned out to be not so bad. However, today can be a different issue. I think you’ve read enough about debris and leaks, this time let’s talk about your chimney.

Chimney’s are a common fixture in our homes. When high winds cause the rain to go horizontally instead of vertically, it becomes a perfect entry point to our chimneys. Watch for water dripping down. You may hear a dripping sound or see a puddle of water inside your fireplace. Quite unpleasant to clean.

Water can also make its way in if the mortar is weak or if the step flashing isn’t firm and in place. This fall, be sure to have your roof checked as Showalter always checks the chimney for problems. It’s a common problem many homeowners experience and don’t realize the damage it can cause.
Call us when you need help. 630-499-7700.

24 hr emergency service

Top 10 Common Commercial Roofing Problems

What common problems plague the commercial and industrial buildings each spring? Showalter has compiled a list of the top 10 problems that

Blown Off Roofing System

occur regularly each spring. By familiarizing yourself with the list, you can watch for many of the issues before they cause damage to the   inside…and outside of your building.

• Roof Leaks
• Blow Offs—Portions of the roof is missing
• Poor Installation and Workmanship
• Lack of Maintenance– Wear & tear begins to show before its time.
• Standing Water—Ponding
• Punctures
• Poorly Completed Repairs
• Safety
• Blistering
• Shrinkage

To have your roof inspected for the top 10 common roofing problems, contact Showalter Roofing at 630.499.7700.

 

Spring Roof Inspection

 

Spring $100 Commercial and Industrial Roof Inspection
Includes a 25 point inspection with full     report. If any issues are found, you can have Showalter Roofing repair the problem for you and apply the $100 roof inspection.   Offer expires: 5/15/12

Do I Need a New Roof? #7 – Masonry and Counterflashing

The breakdown of chimneys and other masonry walls are an indication of roof replacement. If water is coming in along the chimney wall or masonry wall it is either because the counterflashing is failing or the masonry itself is absorbing water.

This picture shows that the caulking has deteriorated to the point that it is actually missing and water can get behind the metal and enter your home. Deterioration can also occur on the concrete chimney cap which allows moisture to enter as well as weaken and destroy the entire masonry structure. By checking the caulking and maintaining the chimney with masonry sealant, the cost of repair or replacement are avoided.

Don’t forget…Chimney’s are Part of Your Home too!

Homeowners tend to maintain only what can be easily seen. It’s not until a problem develops do we realize there’s a roof on the house. What can be even worst is the lack of attention given to a chimney.

There are different types of chimneys on roofing systems.  I thought I’d focus more on the more common brick chimney.

Completed Chimney with Cut Mortar Joints

Brick chimneys are an important part of your home maintenance due to the moisture and condensation brought out by the heat and air conditioning from the inside and the heat and cold temperatures from the outside.

The brick chimney has a metal counterflashing installed at the base of the chimney for protection. If the counterflashing is not cut into the mortar joint the caulking will loosen and moisture will make its way inside of the building. If the flashing is not constructed of aluminum, painted steel or galvanized steel, over time it will rust. If you’ve ever touched rust, the orange color steel particles end up on your fingers. Ultimately, it will run down your roof and stain the shingles. That is an undesirable sight.

Showalter Roofing sprays the chimney with a seal coat or silicone so the chimney remains water resistant. Some bricks are more porous, and will absorb additional water than other bricks.  The chimney cap is made from concrete that too can break up over time.  If water gets its chance to get inside the chimney cap, the chimney will need to be tuckpointed or completely replaced. A costly issue.  There are coatings which protect against water penetration called Crown Coat, a great product that Showalter frequently uses.

This summer, be sure to look on top of the roof. Be sure to check your shingles and the chimney.